Home Security Equipment – Identify Your Needs First

Having a security system for premises is something everyone thinks about but the challenge lies in selecting the security option available so that you get the right level of protection. Although there are different types of home security systems available in the market today, choosing the right one can be overwhelming at times.

Basically, security systems are of two types – Monitored systems and Unmonitored systems. Monitored systems include 24/7 surveillance by the company itself which provided the security system. You get a higher level of security and professional help with monitored systems. At the second phase of security systems are un-monitored security systems. Unmonitored systems do not have a monthly fee since you are doing the monitoring yourself. In the case of unmonitored systems, you rely on your neighbors for calling help in case the alarm is triggered when you are out. Most popular types of home security equipment that you can add to your home or office include:

MOTION DETECTORS: Motion detectors are primarily meant to detect and prevent unauthorized access to your property. Generally, these are placed at doors or windows and when breached, they set off the alarm. When buying a motion detector make sure it has the option to adjust the sensitivity level so that the possibilities of getting a false alarm are minimized.

SMOKE AND HEAT DETECTORS: As the name suggests these types of equipment are used as a protection against Heat and Fire. Most modern houses are already equipped with these right when they are built, for those which are not, it can be a must have addition.

EXTERNAL VIDEO CAMERAS: External video cameras are probably the first type of DIY home security option to come about in the home security market. Security cameras can be wired or wireless. Installation is generally very easy for these type of cameras and it only requires mounting the device outside the premises in the desired location. This kind of security system is most commonly found in homes, stores, shopping malls, companies and industries where continuous monitoring is required. Most security cameras come with the option of being hooked up to a video recording device for continuous recording.

DOOR AND WINDOW CONTACTS: These are a common part of most modern alarm systems. The purpose of it is to determine whether a door or window is currently left open unintentionally. The device will send a signal to the alarm system in such an event and it will set off making the house owner or the monitoring team aware of the situation.

SECURITY SIRENS: The purpose of a security Siren is to make an emergency situation known. It also scares off intruders and thieves with its sound. If you are not going to use a unmonitored security service, a security Siren is an accessory that you cannot afford to miss.

FLOOD AND WATER SENSORS: Flood and water sensors generally come as an optional feature in home security alarm systems however these are very important for houses having a basement or houses in close proximity to a lake, river or sea. These devices can detect high water level at the sump pump or when water is present in an area where it should not be.

Home security systems can be both budget-friendly and expensive so a little bit of research is worth investing both time and money in. In case you are going to a monitored home security system, ask the security officer for a quick security requirement assessment for your home or property. Once you know your exact requirements, you can request and compare quotes from major home security companies in your area. You can also go online and compare prices for equipment from various providers.

When availability is at disposal, the challenge only lies in choosing the right product or service. Having a security system around makes us feel safe when we are far from our home and hence everyone should be availing such a system.

Kim Klewer is the President of APC America. In Business since 1986, APC offers a variety of services, from Alarm and Home Protection to comprehensive commercial security, fire, video and access control systems. APC has served more than 15,000 clients across the U.S., in every domestic state.